The Minnesota Twins acquired utilityman Kody Clemens from the Philadelphia Phillies for cash considerations in April 2025 after Luke Keaschall suffered a right forearm fracture. Against all odds, Clemens has become one of Minnesota's most valuable players since the deal.
At the time of the trade, Clemens was a 28-year-old journeyman whom the Phillies had just designated for assignment. The Twins likely had no idea Clemens would become as valuable as he is.
This season, Clemens has posted 2.5 fWAR and a .240/.301/.465 (111 wRC+) slash line with 26 home runs and 76 RBI over 138 games. He has logged innings at first base, second base and all three outfield positions this year.
UTL Kody Clemens belongs in Twins' long-term plans
One could argue that the Twins should capitalize on Clemens' career year by trading the utilityman, especially with so many young position players either on the cusp of their MLB debuts or recently called up to the majors.
However, Clemens has proven he's an extremely valuable player, and the Twins would be wise to hold on to him. Even if he doesn't have a single long-term position, his defensive versatility makes him worth keeping. Injuries are inevitable, and players need days off. Minnesota should keep Clemens, who will be in his first year of arbitration next year, for his defensive versatility.
Clemens has also proven he can be a major power threat with 26 home runs and a .465 slugging percentage this year. That type of pop isn't easy to come by.
Next year, the Twins outfield should consist of Byron Buxton, Walker Jenkins, Luke Keaschall and Emmanuel Rodriguez. Those four players can take turns serving as the DH.
Clemens could still play outfield occasionally next season, but he'll likely play more infield, as he has been doing lately. Brooks Lee will hold down third base, while Kaelen Culpepper will presumably be the starting shortstop. Meanwhile, Clemens and Royce Lewis should continue to play first and second base. However, the Twins might consider moving on from Lewis in the offseason, making it even more crucial for Minnesota to keep Clemens. Top Twins shortstop prospect Marek Houston could also make his MLB debut next season.
No matter how the Twins' roster shapes up next year, Clemens can play almost anywhere, so the team needs to keep him. Essentially, Clemens has become the Twins' new version of Willi Castro.
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